The next steps in a major project to support Chatham-Kent’s homeless population will include a multi-million dollar price tag.
In a report coming to council Monday night, municipal staff are recommending that councillors approve spending $3,801,697.43 in capital costs to construct transitional cabins for people experiencing homelessness.
The cost would include pre-site development work, cabin procurement, and installation, and would be funded through a 15-year internal debenture at four per cent interest.
Council is also being asked to award a $2.295 million installation contract to NOW Housing, which is included in the capital costs. The company will supply and install 50 cabins, one community building, one washroom pavilion, one security cabin and one utility cabin for the project.
Council voted unanimously in April to move forward with the project, which will see the cabins built on vacant municipally-owned property on Park Street near Hyslop Street in Chatham. The project is also expected to replace the homeless shelter at Victoria Park Place in Chatham.
The new site be staffed by around-the-clock security, as well as support staff who will work with individuals to build life skills, access health care, and obtain permanent housing.
Since initially gaining approval, the municipality’s Housing Services department has contacted residents who live near the Park Street property to discuss the program operations and to listen to suggestions on how the municipality can best support the neighbourhood.